Isle of Wight NHS issues open Covid letter to Island community

The letter states: "On behalf of everyone at Isle of Wight NHS Trust, thank you for your incredible efforts to support the NHS during 2020.

"We are truly grateful for the positive way you have responded to the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic.

"The impact that the restrictions have had on all of us has been huge and the news that our island is now in Tier 4 will come as a blow to many.

"We understand how difficult this is for people, for families and for businesses.

"But the situation is very serious and without urgent action our health and social care services will be put under unbearable pressure.

"The number of positive cases locally has increased steadily over recent weeks and spiked dramatically in the last few days.

Tier Four restrictions

"We are currently treating more people with Covid-19 in hospital than at any point during the pandemic and our services are already stretched by winter pressures.

"We have opened more general and intensive care beds and set up a second Isolation Unit.

"Emergency and cancer surgery will continue but we have stood down non-urgent surgery to free up beds and clinicians to maintain the safety of our services.

"Some outpatient appointments will have to happen by telephone or video call and we may have to reduce these appointments further in the weeks ahead.

"You can help us by doing everything you can to stay safe. Now that we are in Tier 4 restrictions we need you to stay at home."

Online advice available

• Visit 111 online for advice.
• Contact your GP practice.
• Your local community pharmacy may also be able to help.
• If you need urgent medical help, call 111 first, who can also book you in to be seen at your local A&E or urgent treatment centre.
• Finally, please remember, if it’s a life threatening emergency, please call 999 immediately.